Born in Comanche County, Texas on August 27, 1922, he was the youngest son of William B. Ash and Ada Blackshear Ash. He married Zelda Buchan on December 15, 1942 in Abilene, Texas. She preceded him in death in 1983.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, three brothers and his first wife, Zelda Buchan Ash.

After graduating from De Leon High School in May 1941, Bill joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in July 1941 and retired from the U.S. Air Force in April 1969. He served his country during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He received numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal for service in Vietnam. He was a crew chief, flight engineer and aircraft maintenance superintendent during his career.

Bill's hobbies were hunting, competitive shooting and fishing.Funeral services were held November 8, 2009 at the De Leon Cemetery in De Leon, Texas beside his first wife, Zelda Buchan Ash, with the Reverend Buddy Sipe officiating.